693.94244/188: Telegram

The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in Japan (Grew)

12. 1. An officer of the British Embassy brought to the Department this morning a note stating that British Foreign Office has instructed British Ambassador in Tokyo to make representations to the Japanese Government on the subject of smuggling by Japanese into North China, especially smuggling of kerosene, and also has instructed Clive to consult with you regarding the possibility of making joint representations on this subject. They ask that we urgently consider sending you early instructions, it being their feeling that a joint démarche might be of value toward indicating that, as result of Japan’s consistent ignoring of well-established interests of other countries, such countries are being driven to get together in self-defense.

To the Department it would seem that the present moment of parliamentary crisis would be a very inopportune time for making such an approach to the Japanese Government; but Department awaits report by you, with comments, upon the approach which Clive is to make to you.

2. Your 15, January 22, midnight, just received. Please add your comments on opportuneness.

Hull